The Effects of Various Approaches to Lobectomies on Respiratory Muscle Strength, Diaphragm Thickness, and Exercise Capacity in Lung Cancer.

The VATS technique appears superior to the CT technique in terms of preserving respiratory muscle strength and functional exercise capacity. Thoracic surgeons should refer patients to physiotherapists before lobectomy, especially patients undergoing CT. If lobectomy with VATS will be technically difficult, MST may be an option preferable to CT because of its impact on exercise capacity.